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Recent events in our world have challenged me to think about what I think I know about race and diversity, as well as examine my own personal biases. I could go on about that here, but what I'd rather focus on is how this will apply to my new position as an elementary teacher librarian. Diversity in books was always important as to me as a classroom teacher, but as a librarian it will be even more important in curating the library collection for over 1,200 students!
Through my undergrad and graduate studies, as well as my library practicum, the work of Rudine Sims Bishop has come up time and time again. You may know of her work, but not know it was she who wrote about the need for "Windows and Mirrors" in children's literature. [To read her original piece, click here, and to learn more about her, click here. Grace Lin has aTED Talk referencing this as well.] During this time of COVID-19, I mentioned Bishop's work on a FB post, and a friend from high school thanked me for mentioning the concept. She was having to make a presentation at work the next day on the importance of finding mentors who were BIPOC for her company's new interns, and the idea of these interns needing "windows and mirrors" as professional role models fit perfectly with what she was hoping to explain to the powers that be. So what starts in libraries really can change the world! ![]()
As I'm slowing wading through the remnants of my former classroom library, deciding what to keep or give away, I zeroed in on Chris Barton's What Do You Do With a Voice Like That? The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan . It's on the new Texas Bluebonnet List for 2020-21 and beautifully illustrated by Ekua Holmes. Growing up in Texas, I knew that Barbara Jordan was one of the giants of Texas politics, and she was still teaching at The University of Texas when I was an undergrad. She was a trailblazer in life and is still admired today as a master orator and influential leader.
This book is the perfect example of the goal of Bishop's writings of promoting books that are mirrors and windows: Barbara Jordan persevered and overcame the obstacles of her time pursuing a career in law, education, and politics, and she is a figure whose life is inspiring to all. In our home, we talk regularly with our children about current events, and after reading this book with together, I found clips of her on YouTube to share with them. While reading this book, I kept wondering what words Jordan would choose today to craft and measure her message, full of wisdom and gravitas, wishing she were still with us, forever an inspiration.
UPDATE: 7/24/2020: I believe this is the Barbara Jordan speech referenced in the comments below. Although we are sadly still working on the issues she highlights, we are fortunate to have her words of wisdom to keep inspiring us today, and we continue to work.
Jordan, B. [Austin History Center YouTube Channel]. (1988. October 6). Barbara Jordan's address at the LBJ Library [Video file]. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/MYAYOsr5xI4
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